About the song
“I Get Along Without You Very Well” is a timeless classic interpreted by the legendary singer-songwriter Carly Simon. Featured on her 1981 album *Torch*, this song is a poignant example of Simon’s ability to breathe new life into standards from the Great American Songbook. Originally written by Hoagy Carmichael in 1938, with lyrics based on a poem by Jane Brown Thompson, the song has been covered by many renowned artists over the years. Carly Simon’s rendition is particularly notable for its emotional depth and the haunting quality she brings to the performance.
The song’s lyrics explore the complex emotions of someone trying to convince themselves that they can move on after a lost love. The repeated refrain, “I get along without you very well,” serves as a bittersweet mantra, reflecting both resilience and underlying sorrow. The juxtaposition of these emotions is something Carly Simon captures beautifully with her nuanced vocal delivery. Her voice, rich with experience and emotion, adds layers to the song, making it resonate deeply with listeners who have faced similar heartbreak.
Musically, Simon’s version of “I Get Along Without You Very Well” is elegantly understated. The arrangement is simple yet effective, featuring soft piano and strings that underscore the melancholy tone of the lyrics. This minimalist approach allows Simon’s voice to shine, conveying the song’s message with clarity and emotional power. Her interpretation is both faithful to the original and uniquely her own, showcasing her ability to make even the most familiar songs feel fresh and personal.
*Torch*, the album on which this song appears, was a departure from Carly Simon’s usual pop-rock style, as it focused on torch songs—ballads of love, loss, and longing. The album was well-received, with Simon’s performance on “I Get Along Without You Very Well” standing out as one of the highlights. This song, in particular, exemplifies her talent for interpreting classic material in a way that feels both timeless and deeply personal.
Carly Simon’s rendition of “I Get Along Without You Very Well” is a masterclass in emotional storytelling through music. Her ability to convey the pain and complexity of love lost is truly remarkable, making this song a standout in her extensive and varied catalog. For those who appreciate the art of the torch song, Simon’s version of this classic is a must-listen, offering a moving and memorable experience that lingers long after the final note fades.
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Lyrics
I get along without you very well
Of course I do
Except when the soft rains fall
And drip from the leaves, then I recall
The thrill of being sheltered in your arms
Of course I do
But I get along without you very well
I’ve forgotten you just like I should
Of course I have
Except to hear your name
Or someone’s laugh that is just the same
But I’ve forgotten you just like I should
What a guy
What a fool I am
To think my breaking heart could kid the moon
What’s in store
Should I phone once more
No it’s best that I stick to my tune
I get along without you very well
Of course I do
Except perhaps in Spring
But I should never think of Spring
For that would surely break my heart in two